José Mourinho once again finds himself at the center of the media debate at a time of maximum institutional turmoil at Real Madrid. The dismissal of Xabi Alonso has not calmed the waters, and the interim of Álvaro Arbeloa has not managed to dispel the doubts.
The noise is constant at Chamartín. The cup elimination and the climate of mistrust have brought back old names, including that of the Portuguese coach, now in charge of Benfica. From Portugal, some reports suggested a possible rapprochement between both parties. However, José Mourinho himself has made sure to extinguish any fire before it could ignite.
José Mourinho breaks the silence
After Benfica's victory over Rio Ave, José Mourinho was emphatic. With his usual irony, he dismissed any speculation and made it clear that he is not interested in "soap operas." The message was direct and public. The Portuguese coach does not want to be involved in rumors about Real Madrid's bench and, at least for now, steps away from the white spotlight.
These words come just before a key confrontation. Benfica will face Real Madrid in the last match of the Champions League group stage, a match loaded with symbolism.
The past that always returns to Real Madrid
The figure of José Mourinho still carries weight in the realm of Real Madrid. His tenure between 2010 and 2013 marked a turning point and laid the foundations for the subsequent winning cycle. During those years, the Portuguese brought competitiveness back to the team and was instrumental in strategic operations like the arrival of Luka Modrić, now a club legend.
That legacy explains why his name resurfaces whenever Real Madrid goes through a period of uncertainty. But the current context is very different.

Florentino Pérez and the informal contacts
It was suggested from Portugal that Florentino Pérez had exchanged messages with Mourinho after the club's Christmas dinner. Some viewed this as a precursor to something more. However, in the white circle, caution is emphasized. There has been no formal proposal or real intention to start negotiations for next summer.
Furthermore, they are expected to meet in Lisbon in the coming weeks, taking advantage of the European commitment. This encounter will be closely monitored.
Benfica's project and Mourinho's current situation
José Mourinho arrived at Benfica in September, with the season already underway, after leaving Fenerbahçe. He signed a contract until 2027, and the club trusts in his leadership. In Europe, the team has shown significant improvement, while in the Portuguese league, they remain in the top positions, albeit with some distance from the top spot.
The coach feels comfortable, supported, and with a project that is beginning to take shape. It doesn't seem like the scenario for an immediate departure or a drastic change in his career.
Real Madrid explores other options
At Valdebebas, they are considering other names. The club is looking for a profile that fits into a new phase and connects with a young, rebuilding squad. Therefore, José Mourinho is currently ruled out. His experience and character do not align with the current plans of the sports management.
Only time will tell if their paths cross again. Today, José Mourinho has been clear: his future does not involve Real Madrid next summer.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El entrenador que descarta fichar por el Real Madrid